The Highlanders have confirmed All Blacks hooker Andrew Hore will not be with the franchise next year.

The 35-year-old, who has 79 Test caps, is reportedly set to retire from the international arena before New Zealand's end-of-year tour and the Highlanders announcement appears to confirm his step down from top-flight rugby.

Hore played 29 games for the Highlanders over two seasons, and captained the team 13 times. He earlier played 106 Super Rugby games for the Hurricanes. Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph says the franchise is now looking towards the future with Liam Coltman and Brayden Mitchell as their hooking options.

"Horey's contribution to New Zealand rugby has been enormous and the fact that he is still playing at the very top level at 35 years of age is testament to his durability and skill as a player," Joseph said.